Anti-Germanism in Poland: an unprecedented electoral issue
The campaign for the legislative elections in Poland reveals an unprecedented relentlessness of the populist Law and Justice party against Germany. This strategy mainly aims to discredit Donald Tusk, leader of the opposition, by presenting him as an agent of Berlin.
For several weeks, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of the Law and Justice party, has regularly attacked Germany as part of his electoral campaign. A viral video featuring a fake phone call between Kaczynski and a man with German accents perfectly illustrates this anti-German rhetoric. A clear message: Poland under the aegis of Law and Justice will not be subject to Berlin, unlike the opposition represented by Donald Tusk.
This campaign is not limited to simple criticism of Germany. It aims to present former Prime Minister Tusk as an agent of Berlin and Brussels. Images and speeches showing Tusk speaking German or alongside German politicians are regularly broadcast on pro-government Polish public television.
If criticism of Germany has always been used by Law and Justice, this time it reaches unprecedented levels. Indeed, it makes it possible to play on emotion and mobilize voters by raising fears of German hegemony. The wounds of World War II are still fresh in the minds of many Poles, and the idea of a powerful, dominant neighbor can arouse fear and encourage voting for the party that presents itself as a bulwark against Berlin.
The arrival of Donald Tusk in the electoral race reinforced this anti-German rhetoric. Former president of the European Council and known for his good relations with Angela Merkel, Tusk is presented as an ally of Berlin and Brussels. This image facilitates the task of Law and Justice propagandists, who seek to undermine the credibility of their adversary by portraying him as a foreign agent who does not defend Polish interests.
Anti-Germanism in Poland is not a new phenomenon, but it is taking on an unprecedented scale in this electoral campaign. Law and Justice’s strategy is based on a skilful exploitation of the emotions and fears of the population, with the aim of consolidating their political position. Germany has become the ideal scapegoat to distract attention from the real issues of this election, such as immigration or security in the region.
In conclusion, the rise of anti-Germanism in Poland during the legislative elections is a worrying phenomenon. This political strategy plays on fears and prejudices to undermine the credibility of the opposition and strengthen the position of the ruling party. It is important to remain vigilant in the face of such manipulations and to favor a political debate based on rational arguments and a constructive vision of Poland’s future.